Condé Nast introduces code of conduct for photo shoots

In response to the Weinstein affair and the stream of sexual harassment and misconduct scandals which followed in its wake, Condé Nast International has decided to introduce a code of conduct applying to all those who work on photo shoots for the group's publications.

The cover of the February 2016 issue of Vogue Italia, featuring Kate Moss by Mario Testino - Facebook Vogue Italia"All those who work for Condé Nast must be treated with dignity and respect. Any work done for Condé Nast must be carried out in a professional fashion, without any kind of discrimination or harassment," the US publisher's code of conduct says.

Issuing the code was anything but unexpected after photographer Terry Richardson was banned from the pages of all Condé Nast magazines last October. It was recently the turn of photographers Mario Testino and Bruce Weber, regular contributors notably to Vogue, to be accused by some of their models of sexual harassment, and to be ousted from the group's publications as a result.

Among the points covered by the code, there are the models' age (18 years old minimum), the need to create a secluded area where they can change clothes in total privacy, and the need for prior approval of photo sessions which include nudity, skimpy outfits and the simulated consumption of drugs and alcohol. The code of conduct also recommends the avoidance of one-on-one situations on the photo shoot, whether with the photographer, make-up artist or other personnel.

To draw up the code, Condé Nast called on 150 industry professionals (from casting and advertising managers to agents, model agency bookers, magazine editors, etc.), and set up a senior management committee within the group, to deal with any complaints that may be submitted.

In some of its parts, the Condé Nast code of conduct is akin to the ethical charter for the well-being of models drawn up jointly by Kering and LVMH last September. However, as Jonathan Newhouse, CEO of Condé Nast International, underlined in a press release, the group wants to fight sexual harassment above all: "We are absolutely determined to work together to find solutions [to this problem] within our industry. By adhering to these recommendations, all the people involved in the creative process will help to ensure there is a safe, respectful working environment."